Aged Care Provider Boosts Retention Rates Through Automation
Southern Cross Care Queensland, a leading not-for-profit aged care provider, has successfully reduced staff turnover rates by implementing cutting-edge automation solutions. In response to ongoing reforms within the aged care sector, the organization has adopted a comprehensive suite of workforce management tools from Humanforce.
These solutions encompass time and attendance tracking, rostering and scheduling, financial well-being programs, and an employee application. As a result of this technology integration, Southern Cross Care Queensland has seen a significant decrease in staff turnover, dropping from 40% over the past four years to an impressive 17%.
The aged care provider, which operates 13 homes and five retirement villages with a staff of over 1,300 employees, recognized the need to modernize its rostering system. The previous system had reached its end of life and was unable to effectively manage the challenges posed by industry-wide reforms.
Free Telehealth Services Launched in Sydney
New South Wales has recently introduced free virtual healthcare services in Sydney, accessible through HealthDirect. This initiative aims to provide urgent care for non-life-threatening conditions such as coughs, colds, flu, respiratory symptoms, diarrhea, and minor rashes.
The NSW government anticipates that this service will prevent 85,000 unnecessary emergency department visits each year, alleviating pressure on the healthcare system. Free telehealth services have been a key focus of government efforts to address the strain on emergency departments, with previous initiatives catering to both children and adults.
Virtual Hand Therapy Consultations Launched in Western Australia
Western Australia’s Country Health Service has unveiled a new virtual specialist hand therapy service, designed to enhance access to specialized care for patients in remote areas. The pilot program will offer virtual co-consultations between local physicians and patients, spanning two phases over a 12-month period.
Appointments for co-consultations will be facilitated following the triage of e-referrals to the Telehands Clinic, streamlining the process for patients seeking hand therapy services. This innovative approach to healthcare delivery represents a significant step towards improving access to specialized care in regional and remote areas of Western Australia.
